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Not much to say other than simply awesome! I'm an imager almost 100%, and this scope is terrific. I paired it with the 4 Flattener-67 and stars are perfect all the way out on my 8300 chip. Frames from the R, G and B filters aligned perfectly with zero offset or focus shift and zero indication of any CA. Simply a joy to use. I opted for the 4 focuser since I image and it works very well. I can't comment on the 2.7, but you won't be disappointed with the 4.
It is difficult to say just how satisfying every aspect of this instrument is. The focuser and micro-focuser are rock-solid, precise and smooth, with absolutely no slippage. The fit and finish are breathtakingly beautiful. I have tested the optics visually side-by-side against two premium U.S.-made OTAs of 130mm and 140mm aperture, and the TOA-130 optics are unquestionably superior to both. Demanding imaging runs have shown *no* chromatic aberration whatsoever. Yes, the cost of a Takahashi instrument is at the top of the premium price range, but at a time when it is difficult even to get what you pay for, Takahashi OTAs deliver exactly what is claimed, and do it with beauty, style, and uncompromising quality. If you can afford the TOA-130NFB, there is nothing better in its class. Enough said!
I've had my TOA-130F for a little bit over a month now and I have is nothing but praise for this scope. It is an optical and mechanical marvel that is a joy to use. Saturn looks oh so sweet, M42, marvelous. I can get all of M45 using a 41 Panoptic!!! The sky, even in super light polluted Miami, Fl, is blackened out and the stars are little pinpoints of light using an Ethos 13mm. I only do visual astronomy and this instrument lends itself magnificantly to this application. I went ahead with the 4 focuser model because eventually I plan to try my hand at serious astrophotography and because I like the whole beefy-ness of it. Make sure that you have a very sturdy mount and high quality eyepieces as this will allow you to get the most out of this scope.